Vitamin C anti aging skin care ~ DermaE, C2CaliClean and InstaNatural

*pr sample*

Ok, so here we go another anti aging skin care post. :) coz hey better start faster then be sorry later :)

 Vitamin C is an antioxidant powerhouse with skin brightening and anti aging properties.
Did you know Vitamin C support collagen heath, which is responsible for skin firmness? It helps brighten the skin, so if you have a dark spots or uneven skin tone and sun damage, you should look into products that contain vitamin c.

One of my favorite skin brand - DermaE, launched Vitamin C boosted skin care line that includes concentrated serum, moisturizer, night cream and micellar water.
DermaE is vegan and cruelty free brand. Their skin care products contain non toxic ingredients and well environment friendly. First I heard of DermaE on Instagram.  Some bloggers I follow was lucky enough to test their skin care. I, myself love to discover and try new brands. And was lucky enough to be added to DermaE Pr list :) and here I am writing my first ever review on the blog.
I have way more products to write about in later time :)
for now lets talk about their Vitamin C anti aging skin care.

A while back I was send Concentrated Serum and Renewing Moisturizer. Both products feel good and my skin really like them. I do have acne and sensitive skin. They feel non irritating and smells great. As you can guess citrus-y kinda scent :)
First, I put on the Concentrated Serum ~ it helps brighten skin and boost collagen health, minimizing the look of wrinkles, fine lines while improving the appearance of uneven skin tone. Hylauronic acid and Vitamin C (key ingredients) work together to protect skin form environment stress, helping prevent the signs of aging. Soothing Aloe and Vitamin E deeply moisturize for a rejuvenated you. Another great ingredients are Rose Hip Oil and Green Tea, to which my skin reacts well. Overall this serum is great. It does absorb fast and didn't clog my pores.
Renewing Moisturizer ~ lightweight and radiance boosting  moisturizer, supports collagen heath, help  to improve the appearance  of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Probiotocs and Rooibos work with nonoxidizing vitamin c to shield and straighten skin natural defenses for smoother and firmer skin. Works perfect with serum. Plus it can be use day or night.
Both products work well with my sensitive skin :) Vitamin C skin care available here.

Now we took care of the skin and now time for lips :) Yes you can't forget about the lips!
Recently I got a anti aging lip balm by C2CaliClean. I'm not going to lie I never heard of them before. I was just send a box full of oranges and two lip balms :) Can't complain here :)
So give your lips what they have been craving - anti aging lip conditioner that has proven to replenish, repair and n nourish . C2CaliClean lip conditioner is packed with rich natural oils to bring back life in to the lips. It provides :
* long lasting hydration
* deep conditioning
* refreshing citrus-y mint experience

I use this lip balm night time, after scrubbing my lips I applied it and simply go to sleep. .Most days I wear lipsticks so only on the days I don't I apply it. It does feels good, I do adore the scent :)  So if you struggling with a dry lips this might be for you :)
Lip balm can be found here.

and last is a Vitamin C toner by my other favorite skin care brand InstaNatural. This is not the first time I'm mentioning InstaNatrual on my blog. i seriously love their skin care. Now that they repacked all the products I love it even more. The packing is one of the factors that makes me buy a product. It is important.
InstaNatural is a small company that started in Florida. their goal is to provide natural, effective skin care solution/Their products focus on organic and natural ingredients without using harmful parabens and other questionable ingredients.
I was lucky enough to meet with Shana, who works for InstaNatural a while back. It was nice to learn more about the brand that you really like , you know ?!
Im not gonna lie I have a bunch of InstaNatural products so at some point there will be a brand focus post, in which I can talk a bit more of each product.
Today I will focus only on Vitamin C toner, which is life! Spray on toner!  I actually like them more than regular toners. i feel like I don't waste that much of a product. The mist is really nice and there is not dripping ! The toner is boatload with herbs that have anti-acne, anti-aging, skin-lighting and skin-inflammatory benefits. Daily use will support skin protective barrier, priming it to absorb serum and moisturizer more effectively. the key ingredients :
*  MSM  ~ is essential source of sulfur and it has anti-acne, anti-aging and skin lighting and soothing properties .  It helps to reduce appearance of pores.
* Witch Hazel ~ anti-acne and anti-inflammatory agent. it contains healing active ingredients. It is good to own a Witch hazel because of all the properties.
* Lavender Oil ~ nourishes and refreshes skin, also anti-acne agent.  Lavender oil is the most used essential oil in the world.  It help to restore skin complexion, reduces acne and slows aging .
* Geranium Oil ~ nourishes and refreshes skin, Helps with acne and dark spots on the skin.
* Vitamin C ~ it is basically good for your skin. Helps with anti aging, acne, reduces fine lines, wrinkles,
Toner can be used by all skin types, however if you have really sensitive skin make a skin test before spritzing it all over your face. I have oily-acne-sensitive skin  and I find that it works really good on me. I never got a bad reaction and my skin feels amazing. Plus this stuff smells so good!
InstaNatural is sold mostly online.
I leave a link here that will take you straight to their website.

thanks for reading !
xo Monica 

Pixi Beauty Rose Infused Skin Treats Favorites

*pr sample*

I guess Pixi Beauty don't sleep and keeps on working a new skin care for us skin care loving junkies:)

I mean did you see the sneak peek on their new Vitamin C skin care and other goodies line that launched recently? Look below :) I am already adding products to my wish list :)

(Picture credit: Pixi Beauty)

Also recently, less then two weeks ago a new PR package came :) The rose infused skin care products nicely packed in a gorgeous travel makeup/skin care bag. I died! Really, Pixi is spoiling their bloggers :)  And this one likes to be spoiled :) 

Let's start with what catches the eye first. The travel makeup/skin care bag. Isn't it gorgeous! The soft pink color looks so nice with light green and the roses printed all over the bag? Stunning! It is perfect for travels and of course filled with all the essentials I need :) I will definitely bring it with me when I come visit Poland in April :) Ah can't wait! And of course my Mom will get few of my favorite Pixi products :) 

So now what products were in the bag and did I tried them before ? Pixi basically sent over the whole Rose Infused line. I did try some products before and some I am eager to try. As I am writing this post the "new new" products landed on bathroom counter and I will be testing them out. 

Rose water, rose oils, rose anything is very popular in skin care these days, and it should. Rose water and the oils has many great skin benefits such as anti-inflammatory, it helps minimize redness, soothes the skin irritation and helps with blemishes. Plus keeps the skin moisture and  it is ideal for all skin types, especially acne/ sensitive skin. 

The products that came with the bag are:

* Makeup Melting Cleaning Cloths ~ with Chamomile, Grape Seed Oil and Rose. The small pack includes 10 wipes. This is one of the products I have not yet to try. But according to Pixi, it should gently and efficiently remove all traces of makeup. Infused with soothing and hydrating botanical extracts, these wipes will make skin feel clean and balanced after each use. 

* Rose Cream Cleanser ~ nourishing cream cleanser with mineral rich mud  cleans skin as it helps strengths and soften it. Enrich with Rose,Avocado, Chamomile and Aloe Vera. I did try this and I do like it. Most importantly my skin likes it. Feel clean and hydrated afterwords. Definitely need to play more with it. ($18 Pixi Website / Target)
* Rose Tonic ~ I do love the Glow Tonic, so when i saw they came out with Rose I wanted to get my hands on it fast. I was lucky to be sent a while ago mini sizes of both glow and rose tonic. I pulled out one right away and I been using it ever since. This rose and elder-flower toner calms redness, soothes irritation and hydrates the skin. Keeps my skin fresh and plump :) Love it. Pixi, I think makes one of the best toners! NOw I need to get my hands on the Retinol one :) ($15-$29; Pixi and Target)

* Rose Caviar Essence ~ I had this one before and still have in my skin care drawer. I remember when I first got it a while back this product excited me the most. Just by looking at it I wanted to put all over my face.  This Caviar Essence contains encapsulated flower oils suspended in the serum that melts into the skin upon application. The Essence should be applied after toning and it has a nice cooling effect on the skin coz of the gel like texture. Just love it ($24' Pixi and Target)
* Rose Flash Balm ~ 3 in 1, oil free quick absorbing formula instantly moisturizes and brightness the skin. Its perfect for tired, lackluster skin. Can be use as a primer and mask as well. I tried this before many times under the makeup and I really enjoyed it. Love how hydrated my skin felt. Definitely one of the best products by Pixi that is worth checking out. ($24; Pixi and Target)
* Rose Ceramide Cream ~ this got me exciting. I believe this is the newest Pixi product, because I have never seen it before. I have not yet to try it but according to Pixi: "this ultra rich moisture cream, infused with rose flower and rosemary oil drenched your skin in deep hydration. Antioxidant rich plant extracts and ceramides help improve skin elasity and lock in intense moisture while helping to protect against environmental aggressors. It quenches thirsty skin leaving  it healthier and more supple and smooth." I am really looking forward to try this :) ($24; Pixi and target)

* Rose Oil Blend ~ This is my favorite oil! Not only my, ask my sister in law how many did she used already :) I always see her repurchase it. And guess who introduce her to it :) You got that right, ME:) It extremely hydrates, restores and provides skin with natural glow. I don't use it every day, but when I do is mostly night time, I add 1-2 drops to my moisturizer and I can head to bed.
* Makeup Fixing Mist ~ I have like three of them lying around somewhere :) I like how good it sets the makeup. I did write a post on Multi Misting a while back (click here). I adore Pixi mists, and most of the time these are the ones I use the most. ($15; Pixi and Target)
* Rose Glow Mist ~ ah it is so nice to try new mists. I been eyeing this one for a while :) It contains 7 flower oils, essential fatty acids and antioxidant so it does have a dual phase effect and needs a good shake before use. The key ingredients are rose oil, argan oil and avocado oil. It smells amazing and makes my skin hydrating , soft and it gives a skin beautiful glow-y effect, with out greasy residue. ($15, Pixi and Target)

Did your try Pixi Skin Care before? What are your favorites?

Night time Skin Care Routine including SRB, Bravura London, Dr.Brandt.

Skin Care is the most important part of the day. I get send a lot of pr skin care and I am trying to switch around as much as I can and then share it with you.As a disclaimer all the products mentioned in this post were send to me. To be honest I don't remember when was the last time I bought a skin care product.  and also I have to mention that I don't get paid for reviewing these products. I get send them to me for my honest opinion. So if I dont like something I definitely let you know. 

I usually start my skin care around 9-10pm that is the time that I am done with dinner , homework, etc (monday to Friday) On the weekends my skin care look a bit different.

First I reach for makeup wipes. I use them to wipe off rest of my makeup. One wipe sheet is enough to clean my face. The makeup wipes I been currently using are my the brand Celavi in scent Milk. The brand offers more scents to choose. I have one more in Honey but I don't really like the scent. The Milk ones smells amazing and the wipes are soaked really good. And they take off makeup with ease. They don't feel harsh or anything. There is 30 in a package and they cost less than $5 score! So if you ever are looking for new inexpensive wipes I recommend Celavi in scent MILK :) for more scents click here,

once my face is clean I go to my eye makeup. And here with help comes Lancome Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover.  this guy is new in my cosmetic bag but after few uses it become a staple for me. It is really gentle! realy! if you have a sensitive eyes try this! my eyes love it! I didn't notice any burning, no blurry vision, no irritation , nothing! before I pour few drops on a cotton pad I give it a good shake and then press on closed lid to soak up the eyeshadow and mascara and then I sweep it off. I have a small 1.7fl oz (50ml) bottle that was gifted to me my a friend, but once I am done I am getting full size .. unless my friend can get me one more LOL.
Lancome Bi-Facil is available in every Lancome counter price for : 1.7 fl oz - $15, 4.2 fl oz - $30, 6.7fl oz -$39

Ok so now I'm don with my makeup, time to wash my face. Here I been using a Stabilized Rice Bran Enzyme Powder Wash by korean brand SRB. There is a huge hype on korean products! I guess it got to me too! LOl I actually want to try more korean brand and I might check some asian subscription boxes for that. I was contacted on my Instagram by the Choc Choc Cosmetics (korean beauty store in Chicago) they asked me if I would like to try SRB rice bran enzyme wash. Well you don't have to ask me twice hahah.

Yes! and this was a really good decision. I freaking love this cleanser and I will give you 10 good reason that you will too love it :
* First off - is great for all skin types even for the sensitive skin!
* Second - it is really gentle and non irritating (hence great for sensitive skin).
* Third - skin feels so soft and looks healthy after using it
* Fourth - rice bran extract helps repair damage skin
* Fifth - no uncomfortable dryness or tightness after using
* Sixth - smells really nice , like baby formula or cereal :)
* Seventh - really easy to use, just add few drops of water and then clean your face.
* Eight - skin feels clean and refreshed
* Ninth - brightens up the complexion
* Tenth - even kids can use it :) coz of the gentle formula.
I tried it on my daughter and she and her skin loves it :) She told me that her face feels so smooth and soft :) So yeah kids love it too!
if you are interested you can purchase it here.
Price $25

once I am done with washing my face it is time for mask. I don't do masks everyday but once in awhile. For a past few weeks I went back to my holy grail mask by Dr.Brandt Oxygen Facial Flash Recovery Mask.  I talked about it before you can check it here. But yes this mask will always have a special place in my skin care, My face feels soooo good after. I try to use it only if I really need to, I dont know if I will be able to purchase it again - the price is kinda high for my small budget and pay check :(  but it is worth every penny. I will wait for some sale or coupons tho.

My last two steps are with newest addition to my skin care by Bravura London. Salicylic Acid 2% Peel - this is such a an amazing products for acne/oily skin. Salicylic Acid is great for deeply penetrate pores, to dissolve oil buildup, It is housed in a navy blue frosted bottle and it comes with a dropper. it have clear and fragrance free formula. Bravura London recommend to use this peel for 10 (max 30min) and then rinse with water. I prefer to keep it overnight (as a serum) and then wash it off in the morning. Also it can be use  as a spot treatment :) talking about versatile product :) I didn't notice any dryness and my face looks much much better. Usually Salicylic Acid dry my skin but this one feels better :)

On the nights that I dont use Salicylic Acid I reach for their Azulene Moisturizer -  light moisturizer with healing properties. It is prefect for my oily skin. I didn't find it greasy or oily. There is no fragrance to it either. It absorbs intently and leaves my skin feeling nourish. he moisturizer come sin a blue frosted jar wit rose gold cap. The moisturizer itself is blue! but don;t worry there is no dye added. It is blue because of the Azulene plant and no it wont make your face blue :)
Over all Bravura London line is amazing, especially for people with problematic skin such as me. I am really looking forward to try more. I have to more products waiting for me to open them :) SO i better get going and do so.
I also have to mention that Bravura is Cruelty free and Vegan friendly :)
you can shop here.
Salicylic Acid 
Azulene Moisturizer

So that is it for my night time routine. I will do a post on a day time  routine soon.
Did you try any of the products mention here? let me know what is your holy grail skin care product :)

Weekly Skin Care Picks #1

*pr sample*

Hey Loves,

So I decided that every Sunday I will be showing you my skin care picks from  a week before. 

I used to change  my skin care daily,  but it would be hard to write a post based on that. I would have to either combine the posts or post everyday. And we all know that daily posting is not for me. Sometimes I do have a busy schedule and well post don't go up the time they supposed to.  So with that said I guess Sunday is the best day for the skin care posts to go up.  so let  me show you what products I was using the entire week. 

 Lets start with cleaning my face with Kezo Amazing Cleansing Water ($25).  This is a great refreshing micellar water, that cleanse face and eyes, removing makeup and impurities. Like with all Micellar waters I apply it on a cotton pad and simply clean my face. My skin after looks and feels fresh. The Ginger Plant Essence: cultivated especially for Kenzo in the Chinese providence Shangdong, ginger grows in sandy plains. Naturally rich in mineral salt and essential oils, it help produce a healthy glow and radiance boost.  The skin looks review. The Yuzu extract, native to China, it help to combat skin dryness. To obtain extract, the fruit is picked in October when it is most juicy. Yuzu extract helps to increase water level in skin cells. 

 After that I go with  Ziaja Manuka Tree Cleansing Gel ($12.99). This is great pick for oily/acne skin people. It smooths irritation and calms down the redness. It is very gentle and efficient. Manuka Leaves Extract is a key ingredient, used to solve oily and combination skin problems. Has antibacterial properties, deeply cleans and eliminates bacteria causing acne. This bottle my mom send it to me all the way from Poland. Ziaja Cosmetics is really popular polish brand. In Poland my whole family uses Ziaja . Me, personally I remember using a bronze body lotion. Oh how many bottles I went through it's insane. 

Next step is to combine CelleCle skin care Multi Glow A Night Treatment ($98) and Clarins Booster Detox ($39). Let me start by saying that CelleCle skin care packing is freaking gorgeous! Wow! feels so luxurious just like the product that comes out of it. I been actually using this night treatment for two weeks! This treatment product infuses skin with the perfect synergy of pure, time released Retinol and a scientifically proven Bio Retinoid. Overnight application leaves skin feeling and looking smoother, firmer and brighter. In addition, skin friendly sugars lock in moisture, for hydration, while purifying Chinese Licorice keeps complexion calm, clear and healthy. It helps to even out skin tone and diminishes appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. There is no scent to it. It sinks into the skin and skin just feels good. I like to mix it with Clarins Booster Detox.  It contain green coffee extract to counteract the visual toll of partying, pollution, stress and indulgence. Booster gently purifies and detoxes skin for clearer and more refreshed complexion. A must have for people who lives in a big cites. Booster can not be use alone. Best is to mix with a night cream, serums etc. just add 3 to 5 drops. The booster is not for a everyday use tho. I use it once or twice a week, just when my skin really needs it. I know the bottle might look tiny but it will last you for long time. I like the built in dispenser which helps to get the right amount of product, just simply tap on it and the drops will come. It will not leak or spill :) 

The last product that goes on my skin is my beloved  Kate Somerville Wrinkle Warrior ($95). Thanks to Octoly I got a chance of trying Kate's products and gosh i love them.  Wrinkle Warrior was the second product i received. This all in one serum and moisturizer plumps up the skin using three sizes of  hyaluronic acid. It is lightweight and helps to fight wrinkles, fine lines and crow's feet. It absorbs fast and leaves satin finish. It also improves appearance of skin firmness and elasticity.  It can be use day and night. It does not clog pores and works good with my oily skin. Plus I like the scent :) Yes it does have a fragrance :) 

So this are the pick for this week. Next week I will try to use some drugstore products :)
Did you try any of the above? Or you have any on a wishlist?

xo Monica

Self Care with Fresh Beauty including Black Tea Kambucha Essence and new Rose Deeply Hydrating Oil Infused Serum and Peal soft lip cream- Winter to Spring Skin Care Transition

*Purchased by Me*
* Kambucha Essence - PR Gifted*
* Oil Serum and lip balm - PR Gifted*

Hello Loves!

Hope you having good April so far :) I have an amazing self care routine including Fresh Beauty products! I am so excited to finally be able to share my thought on this brand and their products. 

My first products or should I say kit I purchased around May last year. I was at Dermae event at Union Square in NYC and a block away was the cutest FRESH store. The set up was so beautiful and ladies working there were so nice and really helpful. 

After taking tones of pictures and playing with many products I finally left with a cutest Rose kit :)

It included:

* Travel Size Rose Toner (100ml)

* Full Size Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream 

* Sample size of Rose Face Mask

* Sample size of Sugar Rose lip Balm 

This set was bit pricey ($64) but I got the toner that I been waiting for so long! Plus I got birthday gift and few samples :)

Now check out the few pictures I took while there :) the display was simply beautiful, cozy and inviting :)

What do you think? Nice right?  

WINTER - SPRING SKIN CARE TRANSITION  

Recently after an almost year break I finally got back with Octoly. Gosh I did missed that platform :) So far I got some exciting products that i will be sharing in future post but now eeeekkkk I want to show you the baby I wanted, wanted but could never afford it :) The FRESH famous Kambucha Essence. A disclaimer  that out of all products this is the only PR Sample provided by the brand. Rest was purchased by me, or came in subscription boxes that I pay for. 

Just wanted to show you my quick and easy routine with these products and tell you bit about each of it. :)

I start by washing my face with FRESH Soy Face Cleanser - if you read this blog and follow me on my IG you know I love this cleanser. I been loving since I got small sample a while back. Then I bough full size, then I got full size again in Boxy Charm. So the moral of the story is I really really like this cleanser. This cleanser is super gentle on the skin, I even let my 11 year old daughter use it. This cleanser is the best suited for dry and dehydrated skin (like my daughter she have a dry skin) but me, an oily, acne/prone skin gal find it works good for me too. Especially now! Guys my skin got so dry! I haven't wore makeup for a month now and my skin feels so dry... or should I say felt so dry. Where I notice dryness the most were my cheeks. But after using this daily for past two weeks my skin feels so much better! More radiant and cleaner! 

Main ingredients:

• Soy protein – Rich in amino acids, which strengthen the skin’s natural defense system and also contains antioxidant properties.
• Cucumber extract – has moisturizing and emollient properties. It also has soothing effects on the skin and is great for sensitive skin.
• Rosewater – has a plethora of great skincare benefits. It is infamous for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It also helps with hydration, toning and controlling excess oil.

Once I am done with washing I pat dry my skin with paper towel :) Yeah paper towel coz its a one time use. imagine you use your towel for a week.. imagine all that bacteria that sits there... So yeah I either let it air dry or use paper towels to dry my face. 

After that I grab my Shisheido cotton pad and pour some of the FRESH Rose Toner on it. Ah what a joy :) This alcohol free, rose petal (yes real rose petals floats inside the toner) softens the skin and help to refine the appearance of pores, it cleanse and balance the skin after previous washing. It is an immediate boost the skin plus by toning your skin absorbs products that follow the toner much better then if you didn't tone at all. For me toning is really important. The scent is very pleasant and not overwhelming that some rose scents might be. Just hoping the petals that are lock inside won't clog the top. I heard that is the only issue with this toner.
Main ingredients :

- Rose Fruit Extract: Known for its toning properties.
- Rosewater: Helps to soothe and rose flower oil helps to nourish.
- Angelica Leaf Extract: Helps retain moisture.

After toner I will go with my recently gifted by FRESH Black Tea Kambucha Essence. You guys have no idea for how long I wanted this essence. I was always intrigue by the name essence, it sounds so fancy and luxurious, don't you agree?  First time in action I saw essence at Innisfree event(roughly 3 years ago), where they thought us  I believe it was 7 step Korean skin care routine. When the question was asked what is Essence and what does it do, no one answered except me LOL. Guys the look I got from some other girls was priceless! Some were very nice after the "seminar" and some would look me up and down like I'm some kind of freak of nature.... UGH... I really didn't appreciate that, especially when all women should support one another, and don't look down on me coz I dunno don't have a full face on makeup and skills like you... Really silly one individual person that destroyed my mood that day...What can you do move on and try to avoid her when ever I see her at any events... Im all about supporting other bloggers and creators but not her~ #girlbye.

Anyways back to Fresh Essence that acts as a middlemen between toner and serums/moisturizers. Essence provide skin with extra nourishment, and they are packed with vitamins, antioxidants. They are like a daily vitamin to the skin.  Black Tea Kambucha Essence is the treatment that provides anti- pollution and antioxidant protection, improves skin luminosity, reduce the look of fine lines, refines look of pores, smooth's skin texture, boost healthy tone, provide moisture and protects against the blue light.

What is Kambucha - its a fermented sweet black tea, which is rich in vitamins and organic acids produces through fermentation process. Fermented tea is an ancient ingredient that was used in Asia and Russia. It helps protect skin against free radical, pollution and now the blue light.
Now you probably want to know what is blue light and how we can protect our skin from it. Blue light is a part of the spectrum of visible light, is a high-energy, short-wavelength light (not to be confused with UVA and UVB rays).  The main source of the blue light we're exposed to is the sun, however we also get a significant dose from our screens (computer, phone, TV). This cause not only eye strain like cataracts, glaucoma but also have a huge impact on our skin, that includes color changes (hyperpigmentation) inflammation, weakness of the skin surface, dullness. Studies show that the blue light emitting from tv , computer and phone screens  penetrates deeper then UV rays and that cause skin damage and faster aging.

To prevent skin damage from blue light is good to get a blue light screen protectors for your phones and invest in skin care loaded with antioxidants and consider skin care routine formulated with ingredients proven to address the visible effect of airborne pollutants.

And yes you guesses! Fresh Black Tea Kambucha Essence is one of the skin care treatments that should be added in the routine to stop the skin damage. I know that by using it regularly in time you will see the difference in you skin. I been using my for past two weeks and already can tell that my skin looks a bit better.

Plus hello I live in NYC, where there is a pollution so any skin care that fights against that is welcome in my drawer :)

Next product I got just recently and I wanted to include it in this post as it is a part of my routine for past 5 days. FRESH Rose Deep Hydration Oil Infused Serum - this actually a brand new products from Fresh that will launch next week, April 14th. I got this full size sample via Octoly on Monday and I put it in the rotation.

It comes in the similar glass just like the Rose Toner. Its a light weight treatment that strikes the perfect balance between water and oil to deliver deep hydration and nourishment to the skin that instantly look more dewy, soft and plumped with moisture. Fresh created this bi-phase serum to nourish like a facial oil with water-light texture that absorbs effortlessly into the skin.
Water phase - rosewater and damask rose extract help to soothe and hydrate
Oil phase- a blend of skin friendly oils- rose flower, camellia, rose-hip, and squalane- immediately nourish and soften the skin.

If you look at the bottle you can the the bi-phase happening. In order to use it just shake it up so both, water and oil combine. I like to use my fingers when applying it to the skin. It has very nice rosy scent that is not overpowering, very similar to rose toner.  I like that squalane oil is one of the ingredients. Because of its molecular structure, squalane oil penetrates deep into the pores where it targets skin concerns at cellular level. It fight off skin damaging free radicals, it balances oil production, provides moisture to keep skin clear and healthy. It also has powerful anti-aging properties and anti-inflammatory benefits that helps with acne and eczema. I love this oil on its own and mix with others.

What can I tell you after using this new serum for past 5 days? Well, first off I didn't have any reaction. After those 5 days that I include this serum in my routine my skin is definitely more hydrated and overall looks really healthy. But that is thanks to the routine that I formed with these products :)

Next step is the moisturizer, FRESH Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream - another amazing product. This cream is really light weight with silky texture that does feels light weigh on the skin and helps prevent moisture loss. This cream is suited for any skin type, normal, dry and oily. I have oily (like I mentioned 100 times already LOL) and it works just fine. I have it for almost a year, as it came in the box with the rose toner. The first time I opened it up was around September or October. I know it was Fall already and I decided to included it back then in my routine. I recently pulled it out again and I already feel difference in my skin :) I mean this time, the transition from Winter to Spring products like this are really saviors.  Guys my oily skin never felt so dry, it might be also caused by me sitting home all day, due to quarantine? Lack of fresh air is taking toll on my skin and I need all the hydration I can get.

The last product that I have that I included in my routine since Monday is the new FRESH Rose Petal Soft Lip Cream - a deeply hydrating rose lip balm that condition and relives dry lips for a smooth, petal soft pout. I amen I don;t have to introduce Fresh lip balms to anyone, now do i? Their lip balms are some of my faves. I have few sample size ones but I tell you even tho is a sample there is a tones of product inside.

This lip balm as you can see it is housed in a cute frosted jar. Its pink and feels heavenly on the lips. I tried give it to my daughter, but although she likes the nice rosy scent and what it does to her lips, she doesn't like to use her fingers to apply. So hey more for me! This will launch in early May 2020.

So that would be it on my FRESH skin care routine. Oh men that was a lot huh? That might have been one of my longest posts. But worth it! I am really happy that I can share it with you all.
Hope you find something that could work for you :)

Till next time! ~ Monica

K-Beauty Skin Care ~ What's new in my skin care rotation feat. Neogen, Innisfree and Cala Products

*pr sample*

Ok, skin care time :) I been rotating so many products in the past few weeks. So brace yourself this post will be a quite long.

Korean skin care is really popular this day. Well all Korean stuff are like the music, drama and food. 

I do love the food tho! Haha. But the skin care is truly amazing!

In this post I will focus on three bands: Neogen, Innisfree and Cala Products.

By Neogen I only have 1 product to talk about and it is Neogen Bio Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon Pads. They retail for $27 and are available at Sephora and Soko Glam. 

This pads are amazing. Like no joke! The first time I used it I was blown away with the results. Yes first time use results! My skin was so soft and looked brighter! Its a chemical and manual exfoliator that uses natural ingredients and innovative triple pad technology. It gently removed dead skin while the AHA chemical exfoliant deeply penetrates to dissolve dirt and oil in the skin. Lemon extract delivers abundance of Vitamin C for skin brightening benefits.

The pads are locked in a bulky jar and are soaked with lemon essence. And once you open it, you can smell the freshness of lemon. I smells really yummy. What I like about this pad is that there is a sleeve that you put your fingers in and you can use both sides of the pad. I prefer the rough one as I love to exfoliate my skin. I usually use it after I cleanse my face right before toning. The pads have to be used after you double cleans your skin, and you can't use them as a makeup removers. It just don't work that way. I mainly focus on the places on face where all the dirt is. Nose (trying to get rid off those blackheads) and around my nose just clean up all the dirt that is stuck in my pores. And well my neck as well, as we can't forget about that. The exfoliation process is not as rough as I thought it would be, but it sure does scrubs away all the debris and all that dead skin. After I use the other side of the pad, which the soft fabric takes away all the left overs that were left on my face.  After that I rinse my face and voila, soft, bright, glowy skin .. welcome! :)

No wonder they are cult favorite and no wonder Korean ladies have such a beautiful skin. These are so worth the money and once I run out I will get another jar! 

Let move on to Innisfree. Can you believe that until Gen Beauty I had no idea they existed. Of course my sister in law knew of them coz she loves all Kbeauty and anything K related .Prior to Gen Beauty I was invited to an even held at their Lexington location (right across from Bloomingdales).I remember it was super rainy that day and I left work early just to get to this event. The store is beautiful and so inviting and all the gorgeous skin care! The best part? Everything is darn cheap! Anyways at the event Innisfree was showcasing the Hydrating Green Tea line and they showed how proper use each and every product. I got hooked! Like this line is so wonderful! BTW did you kn ow the brand was created and its own by Amore Pacific since 2000! And as you know Amore Pacific is the high end Kbeauty brand sold at Sephora. So there you go! Innisfree not only sells good skin care but also interesting makeup! I swatched a variety of eye shadows and I fell in love with few.

The products I use in my routine are:

* Hydrating Sleeping Mask with Green Tea ~ I love sleeping mask, how about you? I tried so many in the past and I really liked them all. Sleeping mask do wonders to your skin. Innisfree mask is enrich with squeezed green tea from the pure Jeju island to deliver moisture and nourishment deep into the skin. Jeju is the volcanic island in South Korea, know for its abundant plant life, natural unpolluted environment and its cleanliness . The sleeping mask contains Dual Moisture-Rising Technology TM delivered from organic green tea and green tea seed oil. Green Tea is extracted from fresh green  tea leaves that are in rich with amino acids and minerals that keep the skin moisture.The seed oi preserves moisture under the skin for extended period of time to prevent dry skin. The product contains the white capsules that dissolve once your apply and massage them in the skin. I love that feeling. These capsules are filled with organic, natural ingredients and help brighten your skin. The formula is light and absorbs really fast and it has creamy almost gel like texture. The sleeping mask can be used along with night cream (just wait a bit fr the cream to absorb before you apply the mask on, or it can be used by itself, with skipping the night cream. All up to you. I use with both. Winter cold air makes my skin super dry and I really need extra moisture in my skin. For using it minimum three times a week I notice that my skin become soft, smooth and supple. Definitely recommend this one to all my friends and family as it it really good. Plus at $19 price point anyone can afford it :)

* Intensive hydrating serum with Green Tea Seed ~ Same as with the sleeping mask the serum contains eco friendly Jeju island 100% fresh green tea and green tea seed to provide hydration.
The serum contains also citrus extract such as grapefruit, orange and tangerine which help moisture, tone and brighten the skin. The serum come in a plastic bottle that is travel friendly. The pup is covered by a cap that stays in place and keep the germs and bacteria out.  The serum texture is runny,  a bit thicker than water. And it smells of green tea mixed with floral and citrus-y notes. Once applied to the skin it absorbed quickly and leaves no trace of grease or nothing like that. Aside of boosting hydration in my skin I have not see any other benefits but this serum. I like to use it on days that my skin need extra moisture. But overall if you have better hydrating serums at home that do better keep them :) Unless you really want to try it and see what it will do for your skin, go ahead :) Get it at Innisfree website for $25

* My real squeeze masks. ~ these are so good and so affordable. I am going to get more and send to my family. LOL I actually did buy around 10 of them at the event without knowing there was a 7 day booklet with 7 masks in my goodie bag. Most of them were extras so I took to my work and gave to my co-workers :) I have not yet to try all the "flavors" of masks tho. I tested 3 so far and let me tell you a bit, with out making this post super long. Each masks comes in 3 level of hydration: water base (light and fresh), Essence base (deeply hydration) and Cream base (intensely nourishing) . They are made from 100% eucalyptus fibers. The booklet I got contained following: Green Tea (hydrates and nourishes), Pomegranate (brightness and firms), Rose (brightness and smooths), Lime (brightness and hydrates), Bamboo (moisturizes and replenishes), Manuka Honey (moisturizes and replenishes), Acai Berry (firms and smooths). And Fig (tone and brightening). Out of all I tried 3 so far:

- Rose - the first one I tried out of them all. I love any skincare with rose in it. It give brighter and smoother skin and it contains rose flower juice as a main ingredient. It has very nice rose scent to it. Reminds me of rose toners :) Which I adore! I kept mask on for about 20 min, after which I took it off and rub remaining essence into my skin and neck. Skin definitely look more hydrated and smooth. This mask is water based. How can you tell, well look at the bottom right corner you either will see a water bottle, serum bottle or cream jar, and that how will you tell which level of hydration each mask contain.

- Acai Berry - it have a cream base hydration. Acai Berry is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-aging properties. This mask is a a lot thicker then rose one as it is cream based. It is really moisturizing. If you skin feels dry, this one would be the best choice. Again I massaged renaming essence into my skin :)

-Green Tea - the essence is so hydrating and moisturizing in this mask. Again this the water based mask and the essence stays on the mask. I love how my skin felt after it. Hydrated and my pores looked smaller. It have a light scent ot it nothing crazy. This one on par with rose are my favorite.
Now I will make an effort and try the reaming ones.
The real squeeze mask retails at $1.80/

Now let's move on to CALA Products are these are the most newest in my routine and the main focus on why I decided to write this post.
I got three products: Cleanser, Toner and Sheet Mask pack.

So first thing is the cleanser, actually Deep Cleansing Foam. The cleanser contains aloe vera extract filled with antioxidants and vitamins to purify the skin.  It helps to remove all dirt, impurities from the skin.

 I am trying to like this product but I can't. I didn't like the way it made my face feel.
 So greasy and sticky. Ugh I had to go over with more cleanser and scrubs to get rid of it. I really don't think its normal and I don't like the feeling. I had really high hopes for it. ($8.75)

 The toner on the other hand is really nice. Ultra Hydra Toner - moisturizing and soothing hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates as rich botanicals calm and replenish, ultra hydrating hyaluronic acid and shea butter protect moisture from within the skin, enhancing it natural moisture barrier for refreshed, nourish skin. I really do like the toner. I been using it for a week now and we are a good friends. Especially for this time of year my skin really need that extra hydration. So mostly I been reaching for hydrating skin care. I love that this toner contains hyaluronic acid that have so many great benefits for the skin. It have a slight flowery scent. Plus can we talk about the ombre bottle?!? I adore it! ($23.75)

The last product I have from CALA is the sheet mask - Skin Smoothies Daily Boost Sheet mask - I got pack of 5. contain real tomato, apple, strawberry, cherry and pomegranate juice. They also have a green version available, that at some point would really love to try. I was a bit scared to use this one as it has a tomato juice. Don't get me wrong I love tomatoes and ketchup (LOL) but I notice that at some point tomato tends to break me out. So I was hoping this mask will be good, and that good it was.  I used it once so far and really like it.

It gave my skin extra boost and my skin feel and looked better. Much more awakened and brighter. Just felt good. I used it night time but I feel like this would be such a good mask to use in the morning before applying your makeup. (box of 5 $7.50)

Have you heard of any of the mention products?
Have you tired any?